As the Head of Finance at NUS-ISS, Han Boon not only ensures the numbers add up, but he also keeps an eagle eye on the institution's financial health. Outside of work, he's equally committed to giving back through the volunteer work he does.
Learn more about how Han Boon is making a meaningful impact - one act of kindness at a time.
1. Hi Han Boon, can you tell us a bit about your professional background?
I started my career at Ernst & Young (EY), where I handled external financial audit, financial reporting, transactions due diligence and business valuations. Over the past 19 years, I've gained valuable experience in financial planning & analysis, internal controls and risk management, business partnering in SMEs across diverse industries such as healthcare, retail and technology.
One of the highlights of my career was leading the initial public offering (IPO) of a Singapore-based medical clinic chain in Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
I enjoy problem-solving, building teams, learning new technologies and applying them to drive key business outcomes and achieve digital excellence.
2. Can you share more about your role and how it impacts our organisation/staff development?
As the Head of Finance at NUS-ISS, my role is to ensure financial sustainability and allocate resources that support our strategic goals - including organisational and staff development. This involves working closely with the senior leadership team to align budget priorities with key focuses on learning excellence, staff training, and capacity building. By maintaining a healthy financial position, we create opportunities for investment growth, innovation in teaching and research, and a supportive working environment. I see my role as enabling NUS-ISS not only to manage risks but also to seize opportunities that contribute to long-term institutional excellence.
3. What is the most satisfying aspect of your role?
The most satisfying part of my role is seeing how financial decisions positively shape the future of NUS-ISS. Whether it’s enabling a new academic programme, improving student facilities, or expanding staff well-being initiatives, it’s fulfilling to know that my work plays a part in laying the foundation for real and lasting improvements. I also enjoy collaborating across departments. It is known that finance is often seen as the thread that connects many parts of the school and university, and that gives me a unique, holistic view of our shared mission.
4. How do you keep up with the industry?
I keep myself current through a combination of continuous learning by reading widely on industry reports, attending conferences and actively engaging with peers and professional industry associations. The NUS-ISS Ignite Podcast is also a valuable resource to keep up with industry leaders and innovators for tech trends and the latest development in digital transformation.
5. What are your favourite activities outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy cycling not just as a workout, but also as a way to enjoy good food, spend time with my cycling kakis, and explore the scenic, less accessible parts of Singapore.
I bake occasionally on the weekends as I like the hands-on creation process. From kneading the dough to fermentation, and watching the flour mixture rise in the oven is both therapeutic and satisfying process.
Han Boon and his cycling 'kakis'
6. Share with us something about yourself that very few people know.
I believe that “we make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give”. We rise by lifting others.
I volunteer with a few non-profit organisations such as the Repair Kopitiam (fixing electrical appliances for free), MyCommunity (heritage tour guide for Dawson precinct), Lions International (used spectacles recycling project) and grassroots activities with the People’s Association.
I hope by incorporating volunteerism as my way of life, I can inspire my children, friends and colleagues to embrace the spirit of giving and work towards making the world a better place for all – one act of kindness at a time.
Han Boon volunteering at the Give & Take market event organised by the People's Association Kreta Ayer constituency